Genius 'gluten-free' products recalled by supermarkets

Genius crumpets are one of the items recalled following gluten contamination

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A number of Genius-branded and own-label gluten-free products have been recalled after it was found they are contaminated with gluten.

Supermarkets including Asda, Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, Tesco and Morrisons have issued alerts for products including pitta bread and pizza bases. The Food Standards Agency said items are a possible health risk to those with a gluten allergy or intolerance. It is believed the products were contaminated by a dry ingredient used in the baking process.

The products affected were made at the Bathgate Bakery in Scotland, acquired by Genius in 2013.

However, the risk to intolerant consumers is thought to be low after the affected products tested between 5-80 parts per million (gluten measurement) and products between 21ppm and 100ppm are considered “very low risk”.

Genius warned intolerant customers not to eat the affected products but assured others that the products are safe to eat.

A statement from Genius said:

“Genius can confirm that we are recalling a select number of products in which traces of gluten have been found.

“Having consulted with our retail partners yesterday we can also now confirm that in addition to making Genius products, the Bathgate Bakery in Scotland, which Genius acquired in 2013, also makes private label products for UK supermarkets, and also the Livwell brand. The same gluten contamination issue has affected all products listed in an FSA statement published on 7 June, and similar recall procedures have been put in place in order to ensure the safety of all customers which, as always, remains our first priority.

“The products affected contain a very low level of gluten and by industry standards are considered to be of very low risk to gluten-intolerant customers. However, we have responded immediately by implementing a full recall for affected products. No other products are affected including Genius breads and rolls.

“Genius takes issues of this nature very seriously. We are working with our internal teams and retail partners to prevent any risk to our customers and prevent reoccurrence.”